DAVE School offers intensive 1-year training leading to meaningful employment in computer animation for film, visual effects, and gaming. 2014 placement is at 83% and the school is located at Universal Studios Orlando.

I’ve been professionally writing about the game, film, and tech industries for seven years. With a degree in 3D graphics for game art and design, I have seen, studied, and experienced every aspect of the 2D and 3D video game industry. Over the years I’ve seen how no amount of impressive software can replace impressive individual skill, but in a competitive digital world where every artist has to fight to be the best, it’s imperative to have every possible advantage and always seek more experience in new software and techniques. These are the twenty essential programs that every artist needs to consider training in to become the best in their industries.

A painter’s tool of choice is the paintbrush. A graffiti artist uses spray paint to create art. A digital artist or designers uses computer software as a primary tool to create art for video games, websites, installations, and more. While most artists (especially independent artists) work long hours, digital artists and designers have one of the industries most grueling schedules outside of filmmaking. Deadlines are tight and working until 2 a.m. is common. However, digital artists and designers have such a passion for this type of art, that they welcome the challenge.